Deep-time paleogenomics and the limits of DNA survival

Although most ancient DNA studies have focused on the last 50,000 years, paleogenomic approaches can now reach into the early Pleistocene, an epoch of repeated environmental changes that shaped present-day biodiversity. Emerging deep-time genomic transects, including from DNA preserved in sediments, will enable inference of adaptive evolution, discovery of unrecognized species, and exploration of how glaciations, volcanism, and paleomagnetic reversals shaped demography and community composition. In this Review, we explore the state-of-the-art in paleogenomics and discuss key challenges, including technical limitations, evolutionary divergence and associated biases, and the need for more precise dating of remains and sediments. We conclude that with improvements in laboratory and computational methods, the emerging field of deep-time paleogenomics will expand the range of questions addressable using ancient DNA.

Automated summary

The emerging field of paleogenomics allows us to study ancient DNA and explore how environmental changes shaped present-day biodiversity. Deep-time genomic transects will enable inference of adaptive evolution, discovery of unrecognized species, and understanding of the impact of glaciations, volcanism, and paleomagnetic reversals on demography and community composition. However, there are still challenges, including technical limitations, evolutionary divergence, and the need for more precise dating.